New Law Prohibits Workplace Discrimination Based On Genetics

November 23, 2009 6:49 a.m. EST

Washington, DC (AHN) - A new federal law that takes effect this month makes it illegal for an employer to discriminate based on genetic makeup.

The law went into effect on Nov. 21. It is aimed at preventing employers from basing firing, hiring and promotion decisions based on a person's predisposition to certain medical conditions.

The law also makes it illegal for health insurers to require genetic tests to determine coverage or set premiums. It affects companies with 15 or more employees.

According to the Los Angeles Times, the law -- the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act -- is the most significant workplace protection law since the Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990.